A pregnant cow suffered horrific injuries after it was allegedly attacked by a dog at a Derbyshire farm. PHOTO: Derby Telegraph

Published:16:56Friday 11 May 2018

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A pregnant cow suffered horrific injuries after it was allegedly attacked by a dog at a Derbyshire farm.

The terrifying incident is believed to have taken place on Monday, May 7, on Prospect Farm, Buckland Hollow, Heage, where the cow was left bloodied and suffering wounds to its side and tail.

The family who run the farm have been left alarmed by the incident and claim their cow, named Snowheart, was attacked by a dog.

They are now calling on dog owners to be more responsible around farms and they highlighted farmers have the right to defend their livestock if necessary.

Jess Mills, 25, who runs the farm with her father Nigel and sister Olivia, said: “I have been working on the farm for more than 20 years and I have never seen anything this shocking take place in this area.

“I couldn’t believe it when I brought the cows in and saw her in this state.

“Looking at the blood, I think it had been just happened when I brought her in.

“I am pretty sure that these injuries were caused by a dog.

“Whilst footpaths are public and farmers have no issue with that, we ask that they respect our livelihoods and place of work.

“There is nothing more soul destroying than dealing with one of your animals in such a state, knowing that it is because of stupidity and pure ignorance.

“The consequences are so much more than what is visibly seen, the stress of an animal being chased often results in abortion.

“Anyone who says ‘my dog is alright and wouldn’t do that’ poses the biggest threat of all.

“Others see dogs off leads and think it’s okay for them to do the same.